Re-booting Enterprise & Supplier Development for more effective transformation and SMME impact.

In a recent policy dialogue focused on Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD), prominent stakeholders from the Department of Small Business Development (DSBD), Ecosystem Development for Small Enterprise (EDSE), and the private sector came together to address a pressing issue: how to enable more significant impact and economic inclusion of Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs). The dialogue aimed to establish a national multi-stakeholder Community of Practice, with a shared goal of leveraging ESD to address the triple challenges of poverty, unemployment, and inequality in the country. In the midst of the discussions, Minister Stella Ndabeni Abrahams made a thought-provoking statement, emphasizing the crucial role of corporates in driving transformation and enabling access opportunities for SMMEs within private sector value chains.

The Power of Enterprise and Supplier Development:

Enterprise and Supplier Development is a powerful tool for driving transformation in our society. It goes beyond mere compliance with regulations; it becomes a means to foster economic growth, empower local communities, and address systemic inequalities. The dialogue highlighted the need for corporates to actively participate and collaborate in enabling access opportunities for SMMEs, ultimately leading to a more inclusive and sustainable business landscape.

Shifting Focus: Localisation and Supply Chain Access

One of the key areas of focus during the dialogue was the strategic importance of localisation. Both the DSBD and EDSE recognized the critical role of supporting local content and facilitating supply chain access for SMMEs. By nurturing a culture of localized procurement and encouraging corporates to invest in local businesses, we can create a ripple effect that uplifts communities, stimulates job creation, and promotes economic resilience.

Improving Practice, Measurement, and Outcomes:

The DSBD and EDSE have committed to further enhancing the practice, measurement, and outcomes of ESD initiatives. The dialogue emphasized the importance of continuously evaluating and evolving our approaches to ensure maximum impact. By learning from successful case studies, implementing robust measurement frameworks, and leveraging technological advancements, we can refine ESD strategies to create a lasting and sustainable impact for SMMEs.

Accountability and Transformation:

To truly drive transformation, it is essential to hold ourselves accountable. The dialogue called for increased transparency and responsibility within the private sector and SOEs. Private and public stakeholders must recognize their role as change agents and actively seek out opportunities to empower and include SMMEs within their value chains. It is through these concerted efforts that we can dismantle barriers, bridge the gaps, and build a more equitable business environment.

I AM AN ENTREPRENEUR is proud to have been honoured as one of the implementation partners in the official launch of the ESD Community of Practice. Our commitment to supporting entrepreneurs in building and growing their businesses aligns seamlessly with the objectives of ESD. Through this partnership, we aim to create an enabling environment that empowers SMMEs and promotes economic inclusion.

Event video Link:

: Catch up on Day one of the event here

: Catch up on Day two of the event here

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